Abstract : A TOW (Tube-launched, Optically-tracked, Wire-guided) missile system is mounted on a combat vehicle turret for greater combat effectiveness. Before the missile is launched, the gunner keeps the target in his sights in azimuth by powering the turret through a movable sight to which the turret is slaved by a lock mechanism. Missile launch energizes certain electrical devices which unlock the mechanism to make sight movement independent of the turret, open the turret drive motor power switch, and set a brake on the motor which locks the turret against movement to provide a stable platform for tracking the target during missile flight. After a preset time to allow for on-target impact, the devices are automatically reset and the turret drive is again slaved to the sight in azimuth. (Author)